Jo Lovvorn, Clay Artist

My goal as an artist is to embody the joy and sense of play I feel when working with clay whether I’m creating functional pots for everyday use or decorative pieces for the home. My work is wheel thrown using high fire stoneware clay. Designs are created with slip and glazes and stamps and are typically abstract, sometimes primitive, and incorporate elements of nature.

I am attracted to variations in form and strive for clean lines and designs that spatially fit each pot. The final glazing is done by layering shino glazes or by firing in a soda kiln. All of my functional pots are glazed with food safe glazes, and are dishwasher and microwave safe.

Each pot is unique. I do series of similar design, but no two are ever exactly the same and the designs are always changing. Every piece is created with attention to the way it feels in your hand or on your lips, to the visual pleasure it evokes, as well as its function. I want you to experience pleasure every time you see it and touch it day after day, year after year.

Long an admirer of pottery, I began studying ceramics locally at Claymakers Studio in Durham in 2003. I’ve studied under and been heavily influenced by Ronan Peterson, Susan Filley, Deborah Harris, Meredith Brickell, Nick Joerling, Cynthia Bringle, Gay Smith, Suze Lindsay, Patty Bilbro, Ellen Shankin and Silvie Granatelli. In 2007, I established a home studio.

There is such a rich clay tradition in North Carolina and so many accomplished potters locally, that I feel fortunate to be a part of this very vibrant community. My goal as an artist is to embody the joy and sense of play I feel when working with clay whether I’m creating functional pots for everyday use or decorative pieces for the home.